Getting started on a task is often the hardest part. That’s because we have so much anxiety and emotional baggage tied up in the task. We think it’s going to take forever to do, or it’s going to be really hard, or we are just going to fail at it anyway. We have so much negative self talk about doing the thing that we feel paralyzed and can’t get started. But once we get started, it’s often pretty easy to keep going to get the task done. Why is that? Because we realize doing the task isn’t as awful as we were making it in our minds. And so the key to getting things done is to find a way to eliminate, or at least minimize, the barriers to getting started.
Here are a few ways to do that.
1. Set a Timer
- Commit to doing just 5 minutes. You can do anything for 5 minutes. And you will likely find that at the end of that 5 minutes, you want to keep going and complete the task. Or, you could use the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This can help you stay focused and make tasks feel more manageable.
2. Create a Morning Routine
- Establish a consistent morning routine that can help you to feel accomplished and mentally organized at the beginning of your day . Starting your day with prayer, Bible study and time with the Lord can help you to feel centered and focused for the rest of your day. If you prefer night time Bible studies, your morning routine may include making your bed, taking your vitamins, and making a to do list.
3. Start with a Quick Win
- Tackle a small task first to build momentum. Completing even a simple chore can motivate you to move on to larger projects. For example, if doing the dishes seems too overwhelming, just put all the dirty dishes in the sink and wipe down the counters. This may give you the momentum to go ahead and do the dishes.
4. Make a To-Do List
- Write down your tasks for the day. Break them into smaller, actionable steps to make it easier to get started. Instead of “clean living room” write something like dust, clean mirrors and windows, pick up toys, sweep.
5. Set Specific Goals
- Clearly define what you want to achieve, both in the short and long term. Having specific goals can give you direction and purpose. This can be a real game changer, but the key here is to give those goals a deadline, and then put actionable steps on your calendar.
6. Eliminate Distractions
- Identify and minimize distractions in your environment. Create a designated workspace if possible. Put your phone down.
7. Prepare the Night Before
- Lay out your clothes, plan your meals, and set your priorities for the next day. This can reduce decision fatigue in the morning.
8. Incorporate Movement
- Engage in a quick workout, stretch, take a short walk, or dance like nobody is watching. Physical activity can boost your energy and mood, making it easier to start working.
9. Practice Gratitude
- Take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for. A positive mindset can energize you and make tasks seem less daunting. When you don’t want to do something, think about a time when you couldn’t, and remember that feeling of glee you had when you could finally do that thing again. For example, when you didn’t have electricity, or water, so you couldn’t do basic things like dishes or laundry…You were so excited when the power came back on, or when the water main was finally fixed.
10. Use Music or a Podcast
- Listen to upbeat music or an inspiring podcast while you work. It can uplift your spirit and keep your mind busy while your body is having to do boring or tedious tasks. If you have ADHD, this can be a very effective way to not only get started, but also to keep going.
11. Visualize Success
- Spend a few moments imagining how good it will feel to complete your tasks. Visualization can enhance motivation and commitment.
12. Start with Prayer and Scripture.
- Centering yourself spiritually can provide clarity and motivation, reminding you of your purpose and goals. There’s nothing like a scripture on laziness to light a fire under your bottom.
13. Hold Yourself Accountable
- Share your goals with a friend or family member. Having someone check in on your progress can encourage you to stay committed. Better yet, invite someone over to your house so that you have to get the house clean. Works like a charm.
14. Celebrate Small Achievements
- Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement can fuel further productivity. And if you do something that wasn’t on your list, write it down and then mark through it, so you give yourself credit for what all you have accomplished.
15. Embrace Imperfection
- Recognize that not everything has to be perfect. Just getting started is a victory in itself! This is HUGE. Done is better than perfect, and sloppily done is better than undone. The minute you realize that your goal is progress and not perfection, your to do list becomes much less daunting.
Bonus: Stay Flexible
- Be open to adjusting your plans as needed. Sometimes, a shift in focus can reignite your motivation. This may look like working in the kitchen for a while, and if you start feeling overwhelmed or unfocused, switch to another room….
By applying these strategies, you can build and maintain momentum throughout your day. Remember, taking the first step is often the hardest, but it can lead to a productive and fulfilling day!
